Gadget Master

We like robotics on Gadget Master, but what is it with these headless robotic beings they keep building at Boston Dynamics? The robot dog was rather disturbing, and the PETMAN prototype - a torso-less robot capable of walking - is equally creepy. [Robot BigDog gets a BigBrother]

We've written about PETMAN and Boston Dynamics before, but they have released an updated video of their robotic (headless) humanoid. And it's just as compelling as it's predecessor. Watch PETMAN crouch and twist and do press ups!



BostonDynamics uploaded this new video on YouTube a couple of weeks ago, and describes it thus:

PETMAN is an anthropomorphic robot developed by Boston Dynamics for testing special clothing used by US military personnel. PETMAN balances itself as it walks, squats and does calisthenics. PETMAN simulates human physiology by controlling temperature, humidity and sweating inside the clothing to provide realistic test conditions. PETMAN development is lead by Boston Dynamics, working in partnership with Measurement Technologies Northwest, Oak Ridge National Lab and MRIGlobal. The work is being done for the DoD CBDP.

Thanks to our sister site, NewScientist.com and its One Per Cent blog, for flagging this update -  Humanoid robot can do push-ups and break a sweat

MacGregor Campbell writes:

PETMAN's humanoid shape is for testing clothing meant to protect soldiers from exposure to biological and chemical warfare agents. Because PETMAN can walk, crouch, kneel, and do push-ups and simple callisthenics, the robot can test gear for weaknesses more thoroughly than static dummies or partially mobile robots. It can also test conditions inside of the suit by simulating changes in temperature, humidity, and sweating.

Read the full post >>

See also: Robot BigDog gets a BigBrother